Oregon Man Arrested for Pumpkin Smashing Crime Spree

Smashing Pumpkins. Not the band, the activity. It is a seasonal act of vandalism that spikes this time of year, and Grants Pass, Oregon definitely got their fair share of pumpkins spiked.

Smashing (Stolen) Pumpkins

Jacob Solomon and Adrian Ochoa, both 19, have been arrested on multiple counts of criminal mischief. They are being held in connection with vandalizing over 50 vehicles in mid October, from the 7th until the 23rd, by stealing pumpkins from outdoor supermarket displays and throwing them at cars, smashing windows and denting exteriors. It is now believed that the two used baseball bats as well in vandalizing the cars. One can almost envision a soundtrack of "Today Is the Greatest" playing in the background.

Rhinoceros

Police estimate current damages reported at $30,000, but this figure is expected to rise. Solomon and Ochoa both face multiple counts of Criminal Mischief 1 and Criminal Mischief 2. Both are misdemeanors with jail time possible. More charges could be filed after a further review of the incidents.

According to local police, "Grants Pass Detective Unit expect more victims to come forward. Grants Pass Detective Unit want to express our thanks from our citizens who provided information to help with the investigation." Solomon and Ochoa were finally caught based on eyewitness accounts that the vandals were driving an easily-recognized gold Buick with a huge dent on the side. Cue the Rhinoceros soundtrack.

It's The Most Vandalous Time of the Year

Unsurprisingly, vandalism around Halloween is an expensive proposition, peaking on the actual holiday. It is estimated that vandalism and malicious mischief rises by as much as 19% on Halloween. Perhaps these two just peaked early. Such over achievers!